News

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Alongside community partners, Kingston Arts Council (KAC) and Kingston School of Art (KSOA), Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is collaborating to build a free-standing sculpture, harvesting messages of allyship and solidarity, sharing actionable ways the Kingston community can stand with and support the 2SLGBTQ+ community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Community members are invited to attend the "We Stand With You" exhibition traveling to these sites:&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KSOA’s Window Art Gallery: July 2-July 12</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KAC’s UNIT 115 exhibition space (located on the first floor of the Tett Centre): July 14 to 31, 2024</strong></b><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Education Library at Queen’s University: August and September.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This interactive installation will be exhibited alongside last year’s LDSB/KSOA Pride Quilt collaboration. Visitors can continue to "leaf" and spread messages from the tree across the community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Help "Grow" the Tree in the community!</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During July and August, community members are invited to contribute to a collaborative installation developed and led by local artist Clelia Scala. Taking the form of a tree "growing" throughout the summer, the installation will be housed at various sites in the community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Leaf” a Message</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2SLGBTQ+ community members and allies are invited to contribute to the collaborative installation during the exhibition. Participants can "leaf" messages for other community members, and are invited to take messages from the tree to keep or share with others. Messages can include reflections on how to stand with and support the 2SLGBTQ+ community during Pride month and beyond, messages of solidarity, allyship, and more.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Why a Tree?</strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We wanted to create something that could grow through the love put into it. The collective installation aims to cultivate community through not only the final product, but also the act of collaborating across communities and participating in relationship building as 2SLGBTQ+ community members and allies. While the installation may be temporary, it is our hope that the leaves taken will be kept by community members and will continue to represent love and allyship beyond the life of the exhibition itself.</span></p>

<img src="/images/4fe66143-cd12-52c1-98ab-19e78189a640?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z" srcset="/thumbnails/4fe66143-cd12-52c1-98ab-19e78189a640?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 450w, /images/4fe66143-cd12-52c1-98ab-19e78189a640?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span> </span><span>Starting January 14th, 2019 Granite Ridge Education Centre will be introducing a new absence reporting system called 'Safe Arrival.'<br> <br> <span> </span>The new system will let you use a mobile app, website, or an interactive toll-free phone number to report an absence in advance. These options are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. <br> <br> <span> </span>If your student is marked absent and the absence has not been reported in advance, our new Safe Arrival system will attempt to reach the student's priority contact by telephone to confirm the absence. If our system is unable to reach the designated contacts, school office staff will follow up.&nbsp;<br> <br> <strong><span><span>How to report an absence using Safe Arrival</span><br> </span></strong><br> There are three ways to report your student's absence:<br> <br> 1. &nbsp;Using your mobile device, download and install the SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store or from the <a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/home" target="_blank" title="Messenger website"><strong>SchoolMessenger</strong></a> website.&nbsp;<br> <span> </span>The first time you use the app, you will be required to 'Sign Up' to create an account. Please ensure you use the same email address that the school has on file. If the same email address is not used, you will be unable to create an account. Once logged into your account select <em>'Attendance,'</em> then <em>'Report an Absence.'</em>&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> <br> 2. &nbsp;Using a computer, go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/home" target="_blank" title="Messenger website"><strong>SchoolMessenger</strong></a>&nbsp; website.&nbsp;<br> <span> </span>The first time you use the app, you will be required to 'Sign Up' to create an account. Please ensure you use the same email address that the school has on file. If the same email address is not used, you will be unable to create an account. Once logged into your account select <em>'Attendance,'</em> then '<em>Report an Absence.'<br> </em><br> 3. &nbsp;Call the toll-free number <strong><em>1-855-257-9349</em></strong> to report an absence using the automated phone system.</span></span><span><br> <br> <span><strong>Please do not call the school directly to report your student's absence.</strong><br> </span><br> <br> <br> <span>Learn more on the<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/go/e7fcc59a-67b4-5cf1-90e4-731773feec4c" title="Website" target="_blank"> Limestone District School Board</a> website.&nbsp;</span></span></p>

<img src="/images/6e0d144a-02e6-5afe-912c-342741785e96?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029" srcset="/thumbnails/6e0d144a-02e6-5afe-912c-342741785e96?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029 450w, /images/6e0d144a-02e6-5afe-912c-342741785e96?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span> </span>Ms. Emily Mallett is the Adolescent Care Worker here at Granite Ridge Education Centre. She provides support to students who are experiencing social</span><span>,&nbsp;</span><span>emotional and mental health concerns that may be&nbsp;</span><span>interfering with&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span><span>their academic success. Emily&nbsp;</span><span>acts as a</span><span>&nbsp;student advocate and</span><span>&nbsp;mentor; and&nbsp;</span><span>also as a mediator for students who are experiencing difficulties with their peers. She provides support through individual and group counselling programs</span><span>. Emily is the liaison between the school and&nbsp;</span><span>several</span><span>&nbsp;outside agencies.&nbsp;<br> <br> <span> </span></span><span><span>Students can arrange an appointment by going to Student Service</span><span>s and Ms. Peters will book you an appointment.</span><span>&nbsp;Students can also use the QR Code on the posters throughout the school to book an appointment themselves.<br> <br> <span> </span>Emily's time is shared with another school and therefore she may not always be in the building. If students need to speak with someone immediately and Emily is not a</span><span>vailable,</span><span>&nbsp;please go to Student Services</span><span>&nbsp;</span><span>and ask for <em>Ms. Steele-Drew</em> or <em>Ms. Rose</em>.</span></span><span>&nbsp;<br> <br> <span> </span>Emily's office is located on the first floor in Student Services.<br> <br> </span><span><br> </span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p>

<img src="/images/04a98db5-0798-51af-a9d1-c10ad4289e7e?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z" srcset="/thumbnails/04a98db5-0798-51af-a9d1-c10ad4289e7e?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 450w, /images/04a98db5-0798-51af-a9d1-c10ad4289e7e?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span> </span>'Back to school has always been a time of transition. The end of summer. The apprehension. The excitement. And if it came with a bit of anxiety for your kids, well, that was to be expected. But back to school means something completely different this year as we deal with COVID-19. This year, the usual back-to-school pressures may be eclipsed by a more potent set of worries. The fundamental one: will our kids be safe?&nbsp; Some parents have answered this question by opting for a virtual classroom. For those whose children will return to a school, all the new safety procedures—and whether they will work—is provoking anxiety both in parents and their children.</span></p> <p><span><span> </span>At CMHA, we went in search of the best advice for dealing with the fears and stress of returning to school and discovered there are many ways to tame the worry.</span></p> <p><span><span>Have honest and open conversations.&nbsp;</span>Ask them how they’re feeling and help them put their feelings into words. Naming and labelling feelings can help calm a child. Listen and let them know you understand, and that they’re not alone. Know that COVID may not be the only worry on your child’s mind. They may have everyday fears that come with going back to school.</span></p> <p><span><span>Reassure them.</span>&nbsp;Focus on the things they can control and the active role that they can play in staying safe: like following the teacher’s instructions, social distancing and keeping their hands clean. Remind them that it won’t always be this way. It is just for now. You can also let them know they’re not alone: the other kids are feeling nervous too.</span></p> <p><span><span>Be aware of your own anxiety.</span>&nbsp;If you’re feeling unsafe about your child going back to school, they will very likely pick this up. Reach out to your support network, including other parents to discuss your concerns, commiserate and brainstorm solutions.</span></p> <p><span><span>Don’t forget self-care.</span>&nbsp;Make sure you and your children are eating and sleeping well, and generally taking care of your well-being.</span></p> <p><span><span>Tap into their excitement.&nbsp;</span>Help them remember the best parts of school. It’s been many lonely months for them. Remind them they will get to see their friends and teachers every day.</span></p> <p><span><span>Remember you’re resilient.&nbsp;</span>And so are your children: Six months ago, you might have wondered how you’d do it. With schools shut tight and your kids at home, it might have seemed impossible. But somehow you made it through. However hard it’s been, and might continue to be, remind yourself how resilient you and your children are.&nbsp; Notice, though, if you or your child are having trouble coping and know when it’s time to reach out for help.</span></p> <p><span><span><span> </span>With these tips in mind, we wish you all a healthy and safe back to school!'</span><br> <em><span><br> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Taming your back-to-school worries<br> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Canadian Mental Health Association<br> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;September 11,2020</span></em><br> <br> <span><br> <span> </span>For this blog article and more information please visit the Canadian Mental Health Association website at: </span><a href="https://cmha.ca/" target="_blank" title="Canadian Mental Health ">Canadian Mental Health Association</a></span></p>

<img src="/images/9c831af3-2d5b-542b-a14e-b10f625cb747?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z" srcset="/thumbnails/9c831af3-2d5b-542b-a14e-b10f625cb747?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 450w, /images/9c831af3-2d5b-542b-a14e-b10f625cb747?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span> </span>Limestone is excited to offer our families a new secure portal to complete permissions and payments online. With School-Day: Permissions &amp; Payments, you will be able to complete permission forms and payments from any web browser using your SmartPhone, tablet, laptop or desktop. </span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><span> </span>Through this new online portal, you will be able to pay for items such as:</span></p> <ul> <li><span>Field trips</span></li> <li><span>Sporting events</span></li> <li><span>Student cards/athletic fees</span></li> <li><span>Hot lunch (where applicable)</span></li> </ul> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><span> </span>The new easy-to-use portal will remove the risks associated with sending money to school with students, the frustration of lost or missing permission forms, and significantly reduce the amount of paper our school consumes. </span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><span> </span>Look for the School-Day Introduction Letter coming home with your child.&nbsp; Use the instructions in it to sign up for a School-Day account at </span><a href="http://www.school-day.com" target="_blank" title="School-Day Link"><span>www.school-day.com</span></a><span> and connect to your child’s events and activities.&nbsp; </span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><span> </span>With your support, we look forward to a successful implementation of this practical application!</span></p>

<img src="/images/1e38c47e-0c98-5d7c-b563-55e0df6fa2ce?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z" srcset="/thumbnails/1e38c47e-0c98-5d7c-b563-55e0df6fa2ce?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 450w, /images/1e38c47e-0c98-5d7c-b563-55e0df6fa2ce?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span>Dear Parents/Guardians,</span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>&nbsp; &nbsp;Starting Monday, <strong><span><em>November 20th, 2023</em></span></strong></span><span>, Granite Ridge Education Centre will go <span><strong><em>entirely nut free</em></strong></span>.</span><strong><span>&nbsp;</span></strong>There are several students and staff with severe anaphylactic reactions to nuts. Our Elementary Panel is already nut free, however starting on the 20^th&nbsp;of this month our <strong><span><em>Secondary Panel will be nut free as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></span></strong></span></span></p> <p><span><span>&nbsp; &nbsp;For our Elementary families, a reminder that Nutella is not permitted, as it is made with hazelnuts. If your student chooses to bring <em>Wowbutter</em> as an alternative please ensure the <em>Wowbutter</em> stickers located on the underside of the product label are included on your students lunch container to identify the spread as nut free. If there is no identification of the product a student may be asked not consume that part of their lunch, and will be provided with alternative food from our Food Sharing program.&nbsp;</span></span></p> <p><span><span>&nbsp; &nbsp;We understand that being entirely nut free at GREC can be an inconvenience for some families; however the safety of all our students and staff when they are in the building is priority.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> <br> &nbsp; &nbsp;Again, we thank you for your understanding and help with achieving a safe and inclusive school for our entire GREC community.</span></span></p>

<img src="/images/78b59d6e-b833-563d-b27b-4d0b683f3cdd?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z" srcset="/thumbnails/78b59d6e-b833-563d-b27b-4d0b683f3cdd?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 450w, /images/78b59d6e-b833-563d-b27b-4d0b683f3cdd?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span><span> </span>Schools will begin using a new broadcasting tool to communicate need-to-know information to families in a timely and efficient way.</span><span><br> <br> <span><span> </span>The “Communicate” system will allow us to share important school information with families via text, email or phone message. We will use this tool for urgent items like event cancellations or school emergencies. We may also use it for sharing information such as upcoming progress reports, school council meetings or special events.</span><br> <br> <span><span> </span>Secondary school families will be familiar with a previous version of the broadcast tool (Synrevoice) which allows schools to send messages about student attendance and other important school information.</span><br> <br> <span><span> </span>Registered parents/guardians will receive these messages through contact information collected in our student information system. Parents/guardians may choose how to receive these alerts by text message, email or phone call with the exception of emergency events which will always be communicated via all contact methods on file with the school. If parents/guardians choose to receive text messages, they must opt-in due to potential charges from their cell phone carrier. This feature will be turned on Nov. 15 and parents and guardians may receive a text asking if they wish to opt in.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></span><a class="editor-link" href="/documents/48bbc50b-373e-5019-ae1d-7a37c047b5a4?fingerprint=ppb20251217013700" target="_blank"> <span>Learn how to opt-in for text messages.</span> </a><br> <br> <span><span> </span>It is important that parents/guardians ensure schools have the most up-to-date contact information at the beginning of the school year. If your contact information changes during the school year, parents/guardians are asked to contact the school with the updated information.</span><br> <br> <span><strong>Teacher/Coach/Extra-Curricular Leader Messaging:<br> </strong></span><br> <span><span> </span>In addition, teachers and coaches/leaders of extra-curricular activities will also be able to take advantage of an instant message option to keep students and families up to date regarding classroom or practice/game activities in a timely manner. Students and parents/guardians will be invited to join a group and receive messages related specifically to their group. Information on how to join groups will be shared directly with students and families by the teacher, coach/leader.&nbsp;</span><a class="editor-link" href="/documents/07694697-349d-51ff-a42c-a05550bd4f28?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" target="_blank"> <span>Learn how to join a group.</span> </a><br> <br> <span><span> </span>School Messenger App Account:</span><br> <span>All of our new electronic communications tools can be accessed anytime, anywhere online and/or via Smartphones. To take advantage of this new convenience and functionality, we encourage you to create a School Messenger account on your desktop, laptop, tablet and/or download the SchoolMessenger app. While an account is not required to use these new tools, it will allow you to review your contact information and communication preferences, and it stores all of your messages in one place.&nbsp;</span><a class="editor-link" href="/documents/07694697-349d-51ff-a42c-a05550bd4f28?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" target="_blank"> <span>Learn how to create an account.</span> </a><br> <br> <span><span> </span>Communicate does not replace current school communication tools but enhances the way in which schools will provide information to families. In most cases, information will still be provided on school websites, school newsletters, notices home and social media accounts, where applicable.</span><br> <br> <span><span> </span>Parents/guardians should expect to receive notifications from the system soon.</span></span></span>

<img src="/images/03a0fee8-5ffa-5f3f-bb26-835be4d07f5b?fingerprint=ppb20251217013025" alt="" width="inherit" height="inherit"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Several Limestone District School Board (LDSB) graduates have been awarded significant scholarships to put toward their post-secondary education this fall.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Seth Morency has been selected to receive a $120,000 </span><a href="http://www.schulichleaders.com/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schulich Leader Scholarship</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to study engineering at Dalhousie University.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A graduate of La Salle Intermediate and Secondary School, Seth was awarded the scholarship based on his high academic achievement and positive leadership in the school and community.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“I didn’t think [the scholarship] was real at first,” Morency said. “I was in shock when I found it was, and I was super excited. My goal is to be an environmental engineer. My interest is in trying to find ways to clean up the ocean. This scholarship gives me confidence in being able to achieve my goals."</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jonathan Li has been selected to receive a $100,000 </span><a href="http://www.schulichleaders.com/" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Schulich Leader Scholarship</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to study science at the University of Toronto.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A graduate of Kingston Secondary School (KSS), Li was nominated for his academic excellence, leadership in STEM and exceptional entrepreneurial skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vin Bassi, also from KSS, has been named a Queen’s University Commitment Scholar and will receive $48,000 over four years.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">According to the </span><a href="https://www.queensu.ca/registrar/financial-aid/application-required/future-students/individual-awards" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Queen’s website</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, “the Commitment Scholars Award celebrates and recognizes demonstrated leadership in, and commitment to, racial justice, social justice, or diversity initiatives by a student in their high school or in their community.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The award provides dedicated financial, academic, and career support to help students complete their degree.”&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">KSS graduate Izzy Smallman has been awarded an $8,000 </span><a href="https://registrar.uwo.ca/student_finances/scholarships_awards/admission/western_admission_scholarship_program.html" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Western Scholarship of Excellence</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to put towards the Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Western University. This scholarship is awarded to students with the top high school admission average.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations to all LDSB graduates and scholarship winners!&nbsp;</span></p>

<img src="/images/fd3b7936-e74e-55cf-9642-4f5af02e6181?fingerprint=ppb20251217015319" alt="" width="inherit" height="inherit"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone District School Board is thrilled to announce that Lara Paterson, a dedicated member of the Limestone team, has been awarded the prestigious Ophea Award of Distinction.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ophea Award of Distinction recognizes an individual who is a leader in the meaningful advancement of inclusive healthy, active living opportunities for children and youth in Ontario school communities.&nbsp;Lara has consistently demonstrated passion, creativity, and commitment in promoting health and wellness among our students, colleagues, and community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nominees for this award must meet the eligibility requirements, including:</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The contributions of the recipient’s impacts are </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">regional and/or provincial in scope</strong></b></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The recipient has </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">demonstrated excellence in the areas of advocacy, partnership development, and/or the provision of quality, innovative, inclusive programming</strong></b></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The recipient has </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">made a long-term contribution to improving the health and wellbeing of Ontario’s children and youth</strong></b></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The recipient of this award is well known to Ophea for their </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">contributions and years of service and support in service student well-being</strong></b></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The recipient’s work/volunteer </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">contributions impact schools and/or communities</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (e.g. educators, public health workers, recreation providers, etc.)</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Ophea Award of Distinction is presented in honour of Bing Caswell, a dedicated professional whose thought leadership and commitment led to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in the field of health and physical education.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On behalf of the Limestone District School Board, congratulations Lara! We are proud to have you as part of our team.</span></p>

<figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="/images/4404f904-f625-5628-b479-f037226c1116?fingerprint=ppb20251217013634" alt=""></figure><p>Limestone’s Board of Trustees had the honour of having the Skills Ontario Competition Awards at the Education, Policy, and Operations Committee meeting on June 5, 2024. The Expanded Opportunities Team lead by Melissa Baker-Cox, Geoff Petznick, Paul Allinson, and Courtney Soucy, presented banners to the students involved in the Skills Ontario Competition, as well as Skills Canada.</p><p>On behalf of the Board of Trustees and entire Limestone District School Board, congratulations to all the students on their participation and amazing success! &nbsp;</p><p><strong>Grade 7/8 Construction</strong></p><p>Individual teams were asked to construct a scale model of a modest and affordable house for a well deserving family based on the design they arrived with. Team construction projects will be judged on several criteria including creativity, quality, teamwork, and demonstration of basic practical and theoretical knowledge of Residential House Design and Construction.</p><p><strong>3rd Place at Skills Ontario: A.J. Farley, Aiden Lollar, Baurer Desveaux, and Keegan Gardiner</strong></p><p><strong>Auto Paint – Secondary</strong></p><p>Competitors had the opportunity to demonstrate, through practical and theoretical application, their skills and task knowledge in the industry relevant to:</p><ul><li>Basic skills relevant to surface preparation, colour matching, painting, and polishing.</li><li>Knowledge of an application of applicable health and safety regulations.</li><li>Adjusting and checking of safety/operating equipment.</li><li>Problem solving in relation to painting.</li></ul><p><strong>1st Place at Skills Ontario: Alisha Haaksman</strong></p><p><strong>3rd Place at Skills Ontario: Joe Yeomans</strong></p><p><strong>Outdoor Power Equipment – Secondary</strong></p><p>Tested the skills and knowledge of each student in the air and liquid cooled engine field and to prepare each student for employment in the Marine, Powersports, and Small Engine industries. Criteria included: two-stroke engine mechanical operation, all-terrain vehicle braking systems, fuel system and carburetor repair, electrical wiring and troubleshooting, four-cycle engine shooting, and theory.</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <strong>1st Place at Skills Ontario: Jeremy Gardiner</strong></p><p><strong>Auto Collison – Post Secondary</strong></p><p>Competitions were judged on their general knowledge of auto body repair process with particular attention paid to:</p><ul><li>Knowledge of safe working practices through the body repair process.</li><li>Proper application of I-Car procedures for the structural sectioning project.</li><li>Performance of an aluminum welding task.</li><li>Accurate use of Tram-bar and Unibody measurement charges for measuring a Unibody.</li></ul><p><strong>1st Place at Skills Ontario and 2nd Place at Skills Canada: Liam Alford</strong></p><p><strong>Arborist – Post Secondary</strong></p><p>Competitors were judged on:</p><ul><li>Tailboard Safety&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;<ul><li>Assessment of the hazards for the tasks being performed below.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Knot Tying&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;<ul><li>Performing and completing knots as described in the Arborist Industry Safe Work Practices book by WSPS – Spar Pole Rescue&nbsp;</li><li>While maintaining 100% tie off work positioning, ascend the tree (powerline pole for use of competition), assess patient, secure patient, and lower ground.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Limbing Challenge&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;<ul><li>Assemble a chain saw (will be disassembled), properly start reassembled chainsaw.&nbsp;</li><li>Using the same chainsaw, remove identified limbs (obstacle) of a downed tree (powerline pole with large dowels) using proper cutting and safe chainsaw techniques.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Throw Ball Challenge&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;<ul><li>With in the allotted time, utilize provided throw ball lines, to make as many attempts as possible to hit targets to score points. This is an accuracy challenge.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Mechanical Advantage Challenge&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;<ul><li>All competitors were provided with the same set equipment (pulleys, trusses, etc.), where they will develop the most efficient mechanical advantage system within the time allotted.</li></ul></li></ul><p><strong>2nd Place at Skills Ontario: Owen Chapman</strong></p><p>Congratulations to all the Limestone District School Board Skills Ontario Competitors:</p><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Contest</strong></td><td><strong>Name</strong></td><td><strong>Rank</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Auto Collision Repair</td><td>Shayla G</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Auto Collision Repair</td><td>Tate D</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>Auto Paint</td><td>Alisha H</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Auto Paint</td><td>Joe Y</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Auto Service Technology</td><td>Blake D</td><td>34</td></tr><tr><td>Auto Service Technology</td><td>Nathan P</td><td>44</td></tr><tr><td>Baking</td><td>Joanna N</td><td>14</td></tr><tr><td>Brick Masonry</td><td>Zach R</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Cabinetmaking</td><td>Isabelle M</td><td>17</td></tr><tr><td>Carpentry –Individual</td><td>Austin M</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>Carpentry – Team of two</td><td>Hunter M, Jude N</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Coding</td><td>Kai M</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Computer Aided Manufacturing</td><td>Dominic A</td><td>8</td></tr><tr><td>Computer Aided Manufacturing</td><td>Hailey O</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Construction 7-8</td><td>Bauer D, AJ F, Keegan G, Aiden L</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Culinary Arts</td><td>Iain S</td><td>22</td></tr><tr><td>Electrical Installations</td><td>Nolan S</td><td>14</td></tr><tr><td>Floristry</td><td>Sunnai P</td><td>9</td></tr><tr><td>Graphic Design – Presentation</td><td>Grace L</td><td>11</td></tr><tr><td>Graphic Design – Studio Production</td><td>Dominique S</td><td>27</td></tr><tr><td>Green Energy 7-8</td><td>Eirnan M, James S, Chelsea H, Kemsley B</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>Hairstyling</td><td>Sierra W</td><td>13</td></tr><tr><td>Hairstyling</td><td>Delvin D-C</td><td>14</td></tr><tr><td>Heavy Equipment Service</td><td>Fletcher M</td><td>7</td></tr><tr><td>Horticulture &amp; Landscaping</td><td>Patrick C, Kaleb W</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>LEGO Mechanical Engineering 7-8</td><td>Sohoh M, Lonin W, Easton S, Hudson H</td><td>14</td></tr><tr><td>Outdoor Power Equipment</td><td>Jeremy G</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Photography</td><td>Brooke M</td><td>49</td></tr><tr><td>Photography</td><td>Dante M</td><td>55</td></tr><tr><td>Plumbing</td><td>Vann T</td><td>8</td></tr><tr><td>Precision Machining</td><td>Reid A</td><td>13</td></tr><tr><td>Prepared Speech</td><td>Aurora</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>VEX Robotics – Team of four</td><td>Bradley B, Deven G, Maneesha D. Allen G</td><td>14</td></tr><tr><td>Welding</td><td>Riley H</td><td>15</td></tr><tr><td>Welding</td><td>Luke P</td><td>21</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Limestone would like to thank all the Skills Competition Coaches and Chairs, the entire Expanded Opportunities team members, St. Lawrence College, Skills Ontario, and Skills Canada.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<img src="/images/de06adf7-cd27-549d-b705-91421f9a569f?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" alt="" width="inherit" height="inherit" style="float:right"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June is National Indigenous History Month. This month is an opportunity to learn about the diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. It’s a time to honour and give voice to the stories, achievements, and resilience of Indigenous peoples across Canada, who have lived and cared for this land since time immemorial and who continue to make significant impacts, today.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">During this month, we also celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>st</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. This day is an opportunity to honour the histories and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. This day is important as it gives us an opportunity to acknowledge the Indigenous peoples whose histories and cultures are rooted in this land, and whose historical impact and presence have long been ignored by Canadian society. We are now in a place where we are beginning to recognize the importance of Indigenous peoples and their contributions to what we now know as Canada. In the Limestone District School Board, it is critical that we continue to teach the truth and to make a commitment to life-long reconcili-ACTION and living in right relations with the Indigenous community whose traditional territory we are fortunate to teach and learn on.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Working in partnership with the Kingston Friendship Centre and several community organizations, the Limestone District School Board’s, Indigenous Education Team is proud to offer several opportunities for staff, students, caregivers, and the community to engage in throughout this month.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 6</strong></b><b><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong class="editor-text-bold">th</strong></sup></b><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">– Self-identified Indigenous students and students enrolled in NAC10 are invited to participate in a fish scale art workshop with Cree-Métis artist, Jamie Morse. This opportunity is being funded generously by the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest through the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centre's.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 11</strong></b><b><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong class="editor-text-bold">th</strong></sup></b><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">– Storytelling session by Bomgiizhik (Isaac Murdoch): “Stories of the Summer Solstice”. All classes are invited to participate in a virtual session through Zoom on June 11</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to learn about the Summer Solstice.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 19</strong></b><b><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong class="editor-text-bold">th</strong></sup></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – Caregivers, students, and the community are invited to attend a Public Virtual Hodinohsho:ni Governance Workshop hosted by the Woodland Cultural Centre. This workshop will be on June 19</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>th</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> at 6:00 PM. The donation for this workshop helps to support the education department in creating and delivering virtual programming at the Woodland Cultural Centre. Topics covered include Hodinohsho:ni system of governance, use of Wampum, the Royal Proclamation, the Haldimand Proclamation, the Indian Act, and how these conflicted with the traditional Hodinohsho:ni Governance structure.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84279518633?pwd=ckUxb3VLT0J0NnBTMCtONlZnc2xudz09" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Join the Public Virtual Hodinohsho:ni Governance Workshop on ZOOM</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">June 21</strong></b><b><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong class="editor-text-bold">st</strong></sup></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> – National Indigenous Peoples Day at City Park in Kingston. On June 21</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>st</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, staff and students are invited to attend the National Indigenous Peoples Day event in City Park from 11:00 – 4:00 PM. On this day there will be market vendors, a community services fair, food vendors, activities for children and youth, and an evening event starting at 7:00 PM in Springer Market Square featuring a concert by 2</span><sup style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span>nd</span></sup><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Line Bluegrass. The LDSB Indigenous Education Team will be working in collaboration with the Kingston Frontenac Public Library to create buttons, play large outdoor games such as cornhole and Jenga, and other fun activities! We are thankful for the continued collaboration with the Kingston Native Centre and Language Nest to help make this event possible for staff, students, and the community.</span><br><br></p>

<img src="/images/2bfab86f-515c-59c7-93c2-061686101f00?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z" srcset="/thumbnails/2bfab86f-515c-59c7-93c2-061686101f00?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 450w, /images/2bfab86f-515c-59c7-93c2-061686101f00?fingerprint=20260522T1330Z 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span>KFL&amp;A Public Health offers free dental services for children 17 years of age and under, including: teeth cleaning, fluoride varnish, sealants, tips on brushing and flossing.<br> <br> Clinics are by appointment only. To book an appointment, or for more information, call KFL&amp;A Public Health at 613-549-1232 or 1-800-267-7875, ext. 1218 or e-mail DentalClinic@kflaph.ca.</span></span><br>